(Source Audi ) Distinct sports appeal and supreme comfort Ė
these are the two defining characteristics of the Audi
A8. At the time of its market launch three years ago, this large
saloon shot straight to the top of the luxury segment thanks to its
dynamic qualities. The brand with the four-ring emblem is now
unveiling a sporty top model of the very highest caliber in the
luxury segment: the new Audi S8.

Audi S8 is equipped with New V10 with FSI Technology Adopted from the World of Motor
Racing

Smaller, lighter and with fewer friction-generating components than
a comparable 12-cylinder unit, the new 5.2-litre V10 petrol engine
has a more performance-biased pedigree that perfectly suits the
ultimate A8. Maximum power of 450 bhp is delivered at 7,000 rpm, and
peak torque of 400 lb-ft at 3,500 rpm, with up to 90 per cent of
this total available from just 2,300 rpm, enabling a 0-60 mph time
of 5.1 seconds and a top speed limited electronically to 155 mph.

Using the Gallardoís 5.0-litre unit, developed by Lamborghini in
conjunction with Audi, as its foundation, the 5.2-litre V10
incorporates bespoke features that tailor its much-loved character
to meet luxury saloon requirements, without diluting it. These
include Audi FSI direct petrol injection for optimum responsiveness
and efficiency, and the addition of a balancing shaft for maximum
engine refinement.

Specifications

Engine

5.2 liter V10

HP

450 bhp @ 7000 rpm

Displacement

317.3 CI / 5201
CC

Torque

398.3 FT
LBS @ 3500 RPM

Weight lb(kg)

4276 (1940)

Acceleration 0-62 mph

5.1 Sec.

Top speed

155 mph

Driveline

All Wheel Drive

Price (approx)

$115,700

Audi S8 Features Air Suspension

The first ever V10 from Audi is effectively harnessed by a chassis
combining adaptive air suspension with the latest generation quattro
permanent four-wheel-drive system, featuring a standard torque split
of 40:60 (front / rear) that helps to optimize axle load
distribution for even greater agility and steering precision.

The air suspension is based on the Sport set-up offered throughout
the A8 range, featuring firmer damping and a 1 inch ride height
reduction in each of its four modes. The system has been modified
for the S8 quattro to suit its even more pronounced sporting bias,
with revisions to the suspension mounts and to the shock absorbers
within the air-spring bellows designed to maximize roll resistance.
The speed dependent Servotronic power steering has also been further
sharpened through revisions to the steering ratio giving a reduction
in lock-to-lock turns.

20-inch Wheels

20-inch S-design alloy wheels shod with 265/35 ZR20 tires distribute
the power to the tarmac, and within these are massive 15-inch front
and 13-inch rear disc brakes that keep the Audi S8 effectively
reined in at all times. High performance ceramic brakes will also be
available as an option, offering vastly improved temperature
tolerance for the best possible resistance to brake fade and an
operating life of up to 186,000 miles in everyday use Ė four times
the lifespan of a steel disc.

Discreet Sports Style

In addition to the 20-inch alloy wheels, V10 emblems on the wheel
arches, aluminum-look door mirrors, a subtle integrated boot spoiler
and four ellipsoidal tail pipes surrounded by a redesigned rear
apron mark out the S8 quattro externally.

Adaptive lighting technology is another distinguishing feature that
only the W12 A8 models share as standard. The xenon plus head lamps
incorporate additional static turning lights and dynamic cornering
lights that respond to steering inputs to light the driverís path
perfectly through each corner.

S8 Inside: Attention to Detail

Inside, full leather upholstery with seat centre panels, side
sections and head rests in contrasting colors, a three-spoke S
quattro steering wheel with aluminum look gear shift paddles and
facia inlays in either brushed aluminum or carbon fiber highlight
this modelís special position in the A8 range.

The Audi S8 is also equipped with the revised and now even more
comprehensive standard specification from which all A8 models
benefited earlier this year. This includes DVD-based satellite
navigation, light and rain sensors, the Audi Advanced Key system
(enabling keyless access and start-up) and voice control technology
for vocal operation of radio, CD player, car telephone and
navigation system. These features added to an already lengthy list
that incorporates front and rear acoustic parking, cruise control,
14-way electric seat adjustment, electronic climate control, a 6 CD
changer and the acclaimed Multi Media Interface system enabling
intuitive control of many of the carís functions.